60 for 60 Inspiration: Vivek High School, India

The reception area at Vivek High School in India became a hub of activity as the Round Square Student Leadership Team hosted its “60 for 60 Challenge” fundraiser in support of the Round Square Discovery Fund. Led by Committee Presidents Ruhaan Bains and Bani Sethi, alongside Vice Presidents Aarnav Kapoor and Vidur Suri, the initiative brought together 60 students with a shared goal of making a positive difference.

Behind the scenes, students coordinated more than 30 volunteers while balancing school commitments. Reflecting on the experience, Ruhaan and Bani said: “Leadership is far more than planning and assigning tasks. It is about staying calm, adapting quickly, and working together when challenges arise.”

Sustainability was at the heart of the event. Students sold 60 indigenous plants, including Neem, Chandani and Lemongrass, encouraging members of the school community to take small but meaningful steps towards environmental stewardship. Alongside this, students organised a range of stalls featuring refreshments, handmade goods and baked treats, as well as a popular photo booth that brought energy and engagement to the event throughout the day.

The team faced several challenges in the lead-up to the fundraiser. As Ruhaan and Bani explained: “The Neem, Chandani, and Lemongrass saplings arrived late and were not ready for sale. Instead of dwelling on the problem, we bought plain paper bags and hand-decorated them so the plants looked presentable.” On the morning of the event, a last-minute venue change meant reorganising volunteers, coordinating with the school gardeners and arranging fans to keep everyone comfortable in the summer heat.

Reflecting on these experiences, they said: “These moments showed us that flexibility and resourcefulness are just as important as preparation.”

The effort was rewarded by strong support from across the school community. “Once students, teachers, and parents understood the purpose behind the fundraiser, they supported us wholeheartedly,” said Ruhaan and Bani. “They were not simply buying plants, candles, or snacks, they were investing in our mission.”